AS Monaco failed to follow the example of other French clubs (PSG, Brest, and Lille), suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat against Arsenal. The Gunners, unbeaten at home this season, confirmed their superiority despite a promising start for the Monégasques.
Photos: Arsenal/AS Monaco/DR
Monaco’s offensive Start
The Monégasques began the match with determination, with Aleksandr Golovin nearly opening the scoring with a powerful shot in the 9th minute. Arsenal, true to their composed style of play, responded with an attempt by Martin Ødegaard that went wide (20th minute). The match intensified with two huge chances for Gabriel Jesus, but Radosław Majecki made spectacular saves to keep Monaco in the game (26th and 28th minutes).
Arsenal takes the lead
Monaco’s resistance broke in the 34th minute. Myles Lewis-Skelly found Gabriel Jesus in the box, who crossed for Bukayo Saka. Saka only had to tap the ball into the net, despite Majecki’s efforts (1-0). Monaco then struggled, especially after a turnover by Mamadou Coulibaly, which Martin Ødegaard failed to convert (40th minute).
Photos: Arsenal/AS Monaco/DR
Insufficient tactical changes
At halftime, Adi Hütter replaced Maghnes Akliouche with Takumi Minamino, repositioning Aleksandr Golovin deeper. Despite better organization, Monaco struggled to pose a threat. Arsenal, confident, brought on quality substitutes like Jurrien Timber, Jorginho, and Leandro Trossard, followed by Kai Havertz.
Devastating errors
The match definitively turned in the 78th minute. A poor pass from Thilo Kehrer to Mohammed Salisu, followed by another weak pass from Salisu to Majecki, allowed Bukayo Saka to seize the ball and score his second goal (2-0). Monaco collapsed at the end of the match, with Bukayo Saka capitalizing on a slightly deflected shot by Havertz to seal the score (3-0, 87th minute).
Heavy consequences
This defeat highlights the difference between a club aiming for the top 8 in Europe and another that will have to settle for a playoff spot. Monaco never seemed capable of competing with Arsenal, and this defeat could have significant repercussions for the rest of their European campaign.
Photos: Arsenal/AS Monaco/DR
